Chelsea Step Up Interest in Real Madrid Midfielder Sami Khedira

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is eyeing a re-union with Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira, who is also a reported target for Arsenal.

The Daily Mail reports that the Blues manager fancies the German international, who was a key member of the squad during Mourinho's days as Real manager. Chelsea have been on the market for another midfielder, despite bringing in Cesc Fabregas to cover the departure of Frank Lampard.

Arsenal, who unveiled Alexis Sanchez as their first signing of the summer, are very keen on Khedira and were said to be leading the race for the Germany midfielder. It is believed that Arsene Wenger has already held talks with Real over a deal for the player.

The Gunners are now going to have a battle on their hands with Mourinho also joining the race to acquire the Real midfielder's services. The Blues boss will have an added advantage of knowing the player well from his days in the Spanish capital, but Wenger will hope that Khedira's close friendship with Mesut Ozil can work in Arsenal's favour and help them beat their west London rivals to his signature.

The 27-year-old midfielder is currently in Brazil and has played a starring role in Germany's run to the finals of the ongoing World Cup.

Meanwhile, the Blues boss has spoken highly of rumoured Chelsea target Paul Pogba, whom he hailed as the best young player of the current World Cup. Mourinho also feels that the 21-year-old Frenchman can only get better and will be a big player in the next World Cup.

"I would say Pogba has been the best young player, because he had a good World Cup despite the fact his team didn't reach the last four," Mourinho said, as quoted in the Express.

"I think he showed that he is a big player for the next World Cup."